The Boston Celtics enter this campaign looking very different from recent years. With several departures and Jayson Tatum sidelined indefinitely, they are far from championship contention and may even struggle to secure a playoff spot in a weakened Eastern Conference.
That reality opens the door for role players to prove themselves, and all eyes will be on 2024 first-round pick Baylor Scheierman, who must show he belongs in Boston’s long-term plans before the end of 2025.
Scheierman barely saw the floor last season, playing just 31 games and averaging 3.6 points on 31.7% three-point shooting. Expectations were higher this summer, but while he impressed with hustle and playmaking — 6.8 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game in Summer League his scoring was a major red flag. He shot just 27.4% from the field and 20.5% from deep, despite entering the NBA with a reputation as a reliable perimeter shooter.
Defensively, he showed flashes, including 2.3 steals per game, but too often gambled unsuccessfully, leaving teammates exposed. With a bigger role awaiting him this season, Scheierman needs to sharpen both his shooting and defensive discipline if he hopes to stick around.
This year functions as an extended audition for life after Tatum’s return. If Scheierman rediscovers his college shooting touch and develops into a dependable team defender, he could cement a role in Boston’s rotation. If not, the Celtics may be forced to move on before the end of 2025 and replace him with someone more reliable.
